Laura Backes

Get Published With Self-Help Articles for Kids

Looking for a great way to build publishing credits….and help young people? Here’s a market that’s always hopping!

Backstory: Giving Readers More Than Meets the Eye

Add depth and power to your story with this too-often overlooked technique.

Laura Reports from the ALA Midwinter Meeting

Laura visited the American Library Association’s Midwinter Conference and reports on some trends to watch for.

VIDEO – “How Do I Propose a Picture Book Series to an Editor?”

You’ve written a picture book manuscript intended to be the first in a series of books. How do you let an editor know that without impacting your chances of acceptance?

Why Authors Need to Take Chances

How to resist the urge to play it safe when writing for children.

Beginners’ Corner: Turn Your Idea Into a Book

Turn your great idea into a workable manuscript with these tips!

Laura Visits the Website of Lee & Low Books

Publisher websites are treasure troves of information for smart writers. Learn how to pick up clues about what a publisher needs, as CBI Publisher Laura Backes leads you on a video tour through the website of a superb indie publisher.

Building a Story, Chapter by Chapter

Writing middle grade or young adult books? This article is an absolute must!

David Harrison On His Journey To Success

Laura chats with David Harrison, author of more than 70 books, about his fascinating career.

David’s recent titles include: Paul Bunyan: My Story (Random House BFYR) Pirates (Wordsong) Johnny Appleseed: My Story (Random House BFYR) Cave Detectives: Unraveling the Mystery of an Ice Age Cave (Chronicle) David lives

PODCAST – Ellen Jackson On Writing Nonfiction

Listen in as Laura discusses the craft of writing nonfiction with acclaimed author Ellen Jackson.

Writing About Controversial Subjects

Tackling a sensitive subject? Here’s the right way to go about it.

Author Archives: Laura Backes